The Canadian Food Inspection Agency recognizes that some species of susceptible aquatic animals held in aquaria represent a low risk for spreading diseases. Therefore, some of these susceptible species have been granted an exemption, as outlined below.

Pet aquatic animal exemption

When importing an aquatic animal, an import permit will not be required when the owner can:

present proof of their identity and their ownership of the aquatic animal to the inspector at the point of entry into Canada

attest to the fact that the pet animal has not been taken to a show or display outside of Canada

keep the pet animal in their household aquarium

ensure the pet animal is not exposed to any aquatic animals other than those kept in the household, for one year following the importation

not import another pet aquatic animal as listed below for the period of 90 days after the importation

keep all records of the importation

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The pet aquatic animal is one of the following susceptible species of finfish: